Launch of Research Support Awards 2022 to thank staff who support research activities
NIHR Clinical Research Network Kent, Surrey and Sussex Research Support Awards 2022 have launched today (7 November 2022) to celebrate colleagues who don’t work directly in research delivery, or have a formal role in research, but provide essential support to research activity in the Kent, Surrey and Sussex region.
The awards, which are in their second year, are a chance for researchers and research delivery staff to say “thank you” to non-research colleagues who have contributed to research delivery in the region.
Last year 80 colleagues working in research delivery nominated 66 individuals and teams from NHS Partner Organisations from across Kent, Surrey and Sussex.
Dr Joanne Zamani, Chief Operating Officer of NIHR CRN Kent, Surrey and Sussex, said:
“Last year we received nominations for individuals working in roles such as pharmacists, medical illustration, administrators and matrons. Teams nominated included those delivering services within sexual health, neighbourhood nursing, dermatology and pathology.
“We also had several nominations for Intensive Care Units whose staff contributed to the delivery of urgent public health COVID-19 research during the pandemic. Their support on trials such as RECOVERY and REMAP-CAP led to treatments being discovered.
“Again, this year we want to recognise the support unsung heroes give to our research colleagues. Many of these people do not realise the impact of their contribution, and these awards are an opportunity for Kent, Surrey and Sussex researchers to say ‘thank you’.
“Ultimately, the fantastic work of our research community and those who support research activity leads to development of better treatments, as well as improving diagnosis, prevention, care and quality of life for everyone.
“Reasons you might want to nominate your colleagues could include: providing flexible support; going above and beyond their role to help you deliver; removing barriers; providing outstanding administrative or logistical support; communicating with patients and supporting patient recruitment; or showing an exceptional level of initiative, skill and commitment to research within their role.”
Anyone who works in health and care research within the CRN Kent, Surrey and Sussex region can nominate a non-research colleague or team.
All nominees will receive a certificate and a copy of their nomination. One Research Support Award winner and one highly commended nominee will be selected from each NHS Trust type in our region - acute, community, mental health and ambulance. The awards are also open to people working in non-NHS and out of hospital settings such as care homes, hospices and primary care.
Winners will receive £500 for their organisation and those who receive a highly commended will receive £250 for their organisation to spend on research activity.
Nominations are now open and the deadline for nomination is 11.59pm Friday 13 January 2023.
Full details about the awards and how you can nominate your colleagues are on the NIHR CRN KSS Research Support Awards webpage.
